Did you know that one in eight U.S. women will get breast cancer at some point in their lives? October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Like many of you, this cause lies near and dear to our hearts.
If you want to show your support, you’ve come to the right place. There are many ways to acknowledge Breast Cancer Awareness Month – even when you’re out on the water.
In this post, we’ll cover the top five ways that boaters can show their support during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Keep reading to find one that speaks to you.
1. Host a Boat Wash
Sure, we’ve all heard of a charity car wash. However, what about a boat wash?
An easy way to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month is to transform your dock into a boat washing station. Charge either a flat rate or by donation. Then, invite your friends to get a scrub. Afterward, donate the proceeds to a local (or national) breast cancer organization.
If you aren’t sure where to donate, here are some recommendations:
American Cancer Society: This is the oldest and largest cancer organization in the U.S. Although ACS supports all cancer types, it has conducted decades-long work in breast cancer specifically.
Breastcancer.org: This foundation provides information to those impacted by the disease. Additionally, it boasts the world’s largest breast cancer peer community.
Breast Cancer Research Foundation: This is the largest breast cancer charity in the U.S. dedicated solely to supporting research. Its mission is to prevent and cure breast through the advancement of research.
National Breast Cancer Foundation: This foundation has provided uninsured patients with over a million free mammograms, early detection, and patient navigation services. Essentially, it envisions a world where no one navigates breast cancer alone.
Susan G. Komen Foundation: This foundation aims to eradicate breast cancer by advancing research, education, screening, and treatment. It also happens to be the largest breast cancer organization in the U.S.
2. Attend an Event
Throughout October, there are many boating breast cancer events that you can attend. If you’re unsure where to find them, check with your local boat club, marina, or breast cancer organization.
Can’t find any Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities that pique your interest? Don’t worry; it’s easy to host your own. Simply invite your fellow boaters to a:
- Boat parade
- Pink party
- Charity boat show
3. Wear Pink on the Water
October 21st is the official “wear pink for breast cancer day.” Who says you can’t participate on the water? Showing your support can be as easy as sporting a pink shirt or jacket.
Want to go one step further? You can purchase special boating items from supporting organizations:
- Pink Ribbon Breast Cancer Awareness Koozie
- Breast Cancer Awareness Attire
- Pink Sunglasses
- Breast Cancer Awareness Boat Shoes
4. Educate Yourself
It doesn’t matter whether you’re on water or land – it’s essential to educate yourself on breast cancer and its implications. As we mentioned, breast cancer affects 12.5 percent of U.S. women. Therefore, it is likely that you or someone close to you is directly impacted by this disease.
When it comes to a breast cancer diagnosis, knowledge is power. Having reliable information allows patients to take control of their disease. Similarly, inaccurate information (or simply not having enough) prevents patients from receiving the care they require.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to educate yourself and your fellow boaters on breast cancer facts (as well as debunk myths). Take some time to learn the truth about whom breast cancer affects and when. Additionally, educate yourself on prevention measures.
Regarding breast cancer diagnoses, early detection saves lives. If breast cancer is detected early, the cure rates are in the 99th percentile with proper treatment. As a result, all women aged 40+ should get a mammogram each year. Even if this doesn’t apply to you, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a great time to remind your loved ones to schedule theirs.
5. Live a Healthy Lifestyle
Research shows that being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, and eating fruits and vegetables are linked to a lower risk of breast cancer. As boaters, we’re lucky to spend a lot of time being active in the great outdoors.
If your boat days usually consist of sitting behind the wheel with a cold one, Breast Cancer Awareness Month can be a reason to hop in the water. Swimming is a cardio-based, full-body workout that is great for building endurance. Not only that, but it’s a simple way to embark on that healthy lifestyle.
Oh, and if it’s getting chilly in your area, don’t forget to pack a wetsuit!
Conclusion: Try One of These Boating Activities During Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Hopefully, these boating activities for Breast Cancer Awareness Month offered a bit of inspiration on how to spend the rest of October. Breast Cancer Awareness Month allows boaters to come together with their boating community to make a difference – and we hope you’ll consider the suggestions in this post!